Understanding eligibility is crucial before applying for a U.S. passport. This comprehensive guide explains all criteria for Regular, Official, and Diplomatic passports, including age requirements, citizenship rules, special cases, and supporting documentation.
Introduction to Passport Eligibility
Eligibility determines who can apply for a U.S. passport. All U.S. citizens are eligible for a Regular passport, while Official and Diplomatic passports are restricted to government personnel and diplomats. Requirements vary by age, citizenship status, and type of travel.
Citizenship Requirements
To apply for any U.S. passport, you must prove U.S. citizenship. Acceptable evidence includes a certified birth certificate, a Certificate of Citizenship, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a naturalization certificate. Dual citizens can apply for a U.S. passport but must comply with all U.S. laws while traveling.
U.S. citizens by birth must submit a certified birth certificate.
Naturalized citizens need a Certificate of Naturalization.
Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents require a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Dual nationals should maintain documentation of both citizenships but use the U.S. passport for travel to and from the United States.
Tip: Ensure your citizenship documents are originals and legible; copies are insufficient for first-time applicants.
Age-Based Eligibility
Passport eligibility depends on age, especially for minors. Adults (16 years and older) apply for a 10-year passport. Children under 16 require parental consent and a 5-year passport.
Adults 16+: Apply with standard documentation and a government-issued photo ID.
Minors under 16: Both parents/guardians must authorize the application.
Parental consent forms (DS-3053) required if one parent cannot appear in person.
Children’s passport photos must meet specific biometric requirements.
Eligibility for Official and Diplomatic Passports
Official passports are issued exclusively to U.S. government employees on official assignments. Diplomatic passports are limited to U.S. diplomats, ambassadors, consular officers, and eligible dependents. Nomination through the Department of State is mandatory.
Official passport: Government employee on duty, approved by agency.
Diplomatic passport: Nomination by Department of State for diplomatic missions.
Dependent eligibility: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may qualify for diplomatic passports.
Usage: Both are strictly for official travel; personal travel requires a Regular passport.
Special Cases: Name Changes, Lost Passports, and More
Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or legal court orders require updated documentation. Applicants must submit marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders alongside passport applications. Lost, stolen, or damaged passports have specific eligibility rules for replacement.
Name change: Submit official certificate/legal document reflecting new name.
Lost/Stolen passport: Submit Form DS-64 and apply for replacement with Form DS-11.
Damaged passport: Submit damaged passport with DS-11 for replacement.
Minors with lost passports require parental consent and documentation for reissuance.
Never submit incomplete or unofficial documentation, as it will result in application delays or rejection.
Documents Required for Eligibility Verification
Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad).
Valid government-issued photo ID for adults.
Parental consent forms for minors (if applicable).
Marriage or court documents for name changes.
Passport photos meeting biometric requirements.
DS-11 or DS-82 application form completed correctly.
Proof of travel or agency nomination for Official or Diplomatic passports.
Summary Table: Passport Eligibility Criteria
Passport Type
Eligible Applicants
Key Requirements
Regular
All U.S. citizens
Proof of citizenship, ID, photos, DS-11/DS-82 form
Official
Government personnel on duty
Agency nomination, official documents, valid ID
Diplomatic
Diplomats, ambassadors, dependents
Department of State nomination, official authorization
Special Eligibility Categories
Some U.S. citizens may qualify for passports under special circumstances:
Military personnel: Active duty members may receive expedited passport processing.
Emergency passports: Issued for urgent travel due to medical emergencies or family crises.
U.S. citizens living abroad: Eligible to apply through U.S. embassies or consulates with local documentation.
Processing Times & Expedited Services
Processing times vary depending on passport type and service requested:
Standard service: 8–12 weeks.
Expedited service (for additional fee): 2–3 weeks.
Expedited at agency (emergency travel within 72 hours): Appointment required.
Tip: Apply early, especially before international travel, to avoid delays.
Common Mistakes Affecting Eligibility
Submitting incomplete forms or missing signatures.
Providing expired or unreadable identification documents.
Incorrect passport photo size or quality.
Failure to obtain notarized parental consent for minors.
Warning: Mistakes can lead to processing delays or denial of application.
Eligibility Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you meet all requirements before applying:
I have proof of U.S. citizenship
I have valid government-issued ID (for adults)
Parental consent (for minors under 16)
Passport photo meets biometric standards
Completed the correct application form (DS-11/DS-82)
USA Passport Eligibility – FAQs
All U.S. citizens, including adults and minors, are eligible to apply for a Regular passport using the DS-11 or DS-82 forms.
Yes, with Form DS-3053 (notarized consent from absent parent), along with identification and citizenship documents.
Only government personnel traveling for official duties, nominated by their agency, are eligible for an Official passport.
Use the Department of State's official site: travel.state.gov for instructions, forms, and updates.